Burgess Falls

Summary: The large, and unusually shaped Burgess Falls is
one of the most impressive waterfalls in all of Tennessee. It
is also very easy to visit, and close to many other waterfalls.

Burgess Falls is the namesake of
Burgess Falls State Park. This is one of the largest
and most impressive waterfalls in all of Tennessee. It is easy
to visit. The 3/4 mile walk to the falls is mostly level
and passes two other falls, one of them being the 60'
Middle Falls and some cascades.
There is an overlook above the falls which offers some very
impressive views of both falls and the deep gorge the river
has carved out. A steep trail leads to the brink of the falls,
and a stairway will take you to the base of the falls.

This is a big waterfall. Even with a wide angle lens you
will probably not be able to get a picture of the whole falls
from the base. There are some trees in the gorge
near the base of the falls that will prevent you from getting
far enough away. If you were to cross the river you might
be able to get some wider shots, but wading the river might
be difficult. I do not know if you can get to the opposite
cliff side. You can boat up to the falls from Center Hill Lake
when the river is high enough.

When the water is higher the falls spills evenly over
the entire cliff. In lower water, as in the pictures
on this page, most of the water goes over the left or right,
with only some going over the center.

The falls are about 13 miles southwest of Cookeville
and are easy to find. There are signs for it on Interstate 40.
Turn South off the 286 ramp onto State Highway 135. Proceed on
Hwy 135 for 7 miles following the signs to the park. The final
turn into the park is very sharp. The trailhead is right next
to the parking lot.

The Middle and smaller
falls are a short distance upstream. Falling Water River
flows into Center Hill Lake, which was created by the
damming of the Caney Fork River. Fancher Falls, Evins Mill Falls,
Cul-Car-Mac Falls, and Twin Falls
are all around Center Hill Lake. Virgin Falls,
Cane Creek Falls,
and Fall Creek Falls are all within
an hours drive to the south. Cummins Falls can be found
north of Cookeville, and a dozen other waterfalls are in the
general area.

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Last Modified:
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